Leadnaija
The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), under the leadership of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, has been a significant force advocating for self-determination in Nigeria. Despite being peaceful in its approach, IPOB has faced relentless persecution from the Nigerian government. A new tactic emerged in recent years: the use of Simon Ekpa as a tool to destabilize IPOB and discredit its movement....TAP HERE TO READ THE FULL STORY..>>
Simon Ekpa, a self-proclaimed disciple of Nnamdi Kanu, rose to prominence after Kanu’s extraordinary rendition and detention in Nigeria. Initially, Ekpa presented himself as a supporter of IPOB’s cause. However, his actions and rhetoric soon diverged from the principles of IPOB. Under his leadership of a faction, violent enforcement of sit-at-home orders, threats, and attacks escalated, bringing untold hardship to the same people IPOB seeks to protect.
It became apparent that Ekpa’s actions were harming IPOB’s credibility. While IPOB explicitly disassociated itself from his activities, Nigerian authorities leveraged his divisive tactics to label the entire movement as violent and destructive. This narrative provided the government with an excuse to intensify military operations in the Southeast, leading to extrajudicial killings, arbitrary arrests, and the destruction of communities.
Instead of holding Simon Ekpa accountable for his actions, the Nigerian government’s lack of decisive action against him suggests a more sinister agenda. Many believe that Ekpa’s activities are being covertly enabled to tarnish IPOB’s reputation, weaken its unity, and create division among its supporters. By associating IPOB with violence orchestrated by Ekpa, the government tried to sway public opinion and justify its repression of the movement.
This strategy of infiltration and blackmail is not new. Governments often exploit internal conflicts within opposition groups to weaken their resolve. In IPOB’s case, the government’s use of Ekpa has not only sowed division but also subjected the people of the Southeast to increased suffering.
For IPOB and its supporters, the lesson is clear: vigilance and unity are paramount. The movement must continue to expose the government’s tactics and maintain its commitment to peaceful advocacy. The international community must also see through these schemes and hold the Nigerian government accountable for its actions against IPOB and the people of the Southeast.
The use of Simon Ekpa as a pawn to blackmail IPOB is a desperate tactic by a government unwilling to address the root causes of agitation. True peace and stability will only come when the Nigerian government respects the rights to self determination, release Mazi Nnamdi Kanu and engages in genuine dialogue with IPOB.
Source: Elochukwu Ohagi /X page
